I t's that time of year again - the cusp of summer is upon us and so is Queensland's premier racing carnival and thoroughbred horse sale, Magic Millions. Enjoy the atmosphere of the races and all that the Gold Coast has to offer over thirteen days in January 2013 - early bird tickets are on sale now.

The 2013 Carnival commences on Friday 4 January with the first day of Magic Millions Yearling Sales taking place on Wednesday 9 January.

The Carnival culminates with the Magic Millions Raceday at the Gold Coast Turf Club on Saturday 12 January 2013. Magic Millions is the largest sales incentive raceday in the world carrying prize money of $4.7 million. The $2 Million Magic Millions 2YO Classic is the highlight of the race schedule - with only graduates of the Magic Millions Yearling Sales eligible to compete.

2013 marks an important milestone for Magic Millions, with the first women's only incentive race set to take place (MMRW). The "race" offers a prize money incentive of AUD$500,000, which will be distributed between the top four 'all female owned or leased' horses in finishing order of the Magic Millions 2YO Classic.

Zara Phillips, Magic Millions Racing Women Ambassador will make appearances throughout carnival week, along with other VIP's including MYER ambassadors.

Magic Millions Managing Director Vin Cox said the 2013 Magic Millions was shaping up to be one of the best yet.

"We're very much looking forward to the 2013 Magic Millions Carnival and hosting Racing Women Ambassador, Zara Phillips. We know an ambassador of this stature will shine an international light on our beautiful state. We are looking forward to a quality packed yearling sales and the highlight of the week, the 2YO Classic."

"I encourage visitors planning their trip to Queensland for the Magic Millions Raceday and Carnival to buy their tickets now to take advantage of the early bird general admission tickets - $25 online now*, compared to $37 on raceday. It's also a good opportunity to plan a vacation for you and your families and enjoy the great weather, shopping, dining and entertainment that the Gold Coast has to offer."

Gold Coast Turf Club Chief Executive Grant Sheather said the 2013 Magic Millions Carnival offered an exciting mix of events that would attract both racing devotees and those who wanted to simply experience one of the most important and colourful annual events in the City.

"All involved with the event are working hard to make this year's carnival special and we are predicting a strong rollup of both regular punters and newcomers," said Mr Sheather.

"We especially encourage those who have not attended in the past to enjoy the excitement and unique combination of events the Magic Millions Carnival offers."

The 2013 Magic Millions Raceday and Carnival is supported by Events Queensland as part of a growing calendar of sporting, cultural, regional and business events across the state.